Deep Creek Hike 07-06-09

As we approached the Deep Creek trail, it went past sign posts and up the big ridge that stared us in the face. The trail itself is in good shape and is well maintained. Wildflowers abound and, depending on the year, berries are available for pickers. The trail begins with a series of almost continuous switchbacks climbing and climbing. The view behind us into Paradise Valley was spectacular on this steep but beautiful climb. 

The trailhead elevation is (approximately) 5800', but we seem to be "good to go." 

So, in a sun-drenched absolutely gorgeous, flower-filled meadow, we began a zigzag trail up to the tall trees. It's an open exposure and it took a while to switchback to the ridge line where the trail crosses into dense forest and drops down to the creek.

We followed Deep Creek as it cascades down, down, tumbling over boulders, music to the ears. South Fork Deep Creek is a beautiful stream that comes out of the Absaroka Mountains. 

We finally made it into the trees, with Deep Creek below. This is a stretch of beautiful trail that works its way through woods and clearings, climbing upward, soon entering the Absaroka/Beartooth Wilderness. 

Kinda inaccessible.

At lunch, SPOT went out, and a tiny friend landed on my finger!

After two hours' hiking, and following lunch, we continued hiking up, and at the 7000' level, we made a bend in the trail ... only to discover ominous black clouds to the west BEHIND us! This was the way back to our car! Here comes Jimmy down the trail, above. Look at that cloud mass behind him!

Turning about at once, we retraced our steps, in a double-quick hurry, with lightning spiking and thunder booming overhead. The lightning up here scared me half to death, so I literally raced down the mountain. It didn't take us long (only 55 min) to get to the car and, believe it or not, we didn't get rained on! But the rain in the bottom photo looking west doused Livingston. I wasn't afraid of getting wet, but I can honestly say I was terrified of the forked lightning. Loved the trail, and all's well that ends well, but I hope I don't have to do this again!